Tips on Designing a Reception Area for Your Salon

First impressions matter everywhere. But when someone is stepping into a place of business that’s all about appearances, aesthetics, and style, a strong first impression is absolutely crucial. Far more than a repair shop, an insurance office, or a radio station, a hair salon’s reception area needs to set the right tone for the service a customer is about to enjoy. These tips on designing a reception area for your salon will help you craft a gateway to your business that keeps guests comfortable, sends the best message, and turns drop-in customers into regulars.

Light Colors, Natural Light

Though we may spend hours each day under fluorescent lights, most of us look and feel our best in more natural conditions. Commercial real estate generally doesn’t provide enough sunlight that you can rely on it completely, but you can offset the garishness of fluorescents with generous windows. Where you have walls to paint, paint them in lighter tones that make the most of natural light and keep guests feeling confident and relaxed.

Be Current

You may have an affinity for classic, well-built antique furniture and want to bring that into your reception area. Though you may know these items to be beautiful work made with care and expert craftsmanship, others may view them as simply old, and old is not what you want here. No matter how much pride you take in furniture that has been lovingly restored, “lovingly restored” is not how your guests want to think of themselves after their appointments. Hair salons are all about the present day—your patrons come to your business to keep current. Sophisticated, modern furniture shows your guests that they’ll leave looking sophisticated and modern themselves.

Attention To Detail

However you decide to design your salon’s reception area, it’s the little things that matter. Many salons like to offer magazines and periodicals that lend inspiration to their customers. It’s a classic idea, but make sure to store and present them well, so they’re not strewn about the area. You don’t want guests thinking about sloppiness before their appointments.

Greenery can add bursts of life and color to empty corners, but plants that look like they need some water will have your visitors wondering what else your business is failing to keep up with. And while many customers appreciate some light refreshments before appointments, it’s better to have your receptionist offer water, coffee, or tea rather than allow a self-service station to fall into disarray. These small tips on designing a reception area for your salon could make a big difference in the mood your salon sets and the client base you develop.